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Thailand king foils sister's political bid

Thailand's king has blocked an attempt by his sister to run for prime minister. Just one day after putting the princess forward as its candidate, the Thai Raksa Chart party says it will comply "with the royal command."

The party thanked the 67-year-old princess for her efforts, and said it would abide by election regulations and "tradition and royal customs" under Thailand's constitutional monarchy.

Thai Raksa Chart shocked the country when it announced Ubolratana as its candidate on Friday morning. Later that day, reigning King Maha Vajiralongkorn, 66, condemned the bid as unconstitutional and "inappropriate."

In a strongly worded statement, the king said senior royal family members should remain above politics and be politically neutral.

The Election Commission, which is overseeing the March elections, said it would issue a ruling on the issue on Monday. While the body has the final say on the list of candidates, it is unlikely to ignore the king's position in making its decision.